Jet helmet, flat pedal shoes & merino shirt: Already ridden - new parts in the first practical test
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Fox Dropframe Pro
- 662 grammes (size M)
- Finely adjustable Boa swivel wheel
- Triple height-adjustable belt strap
- integrated MIPS
- Fidlock magnetic buckle
- Height-adjustable visor
- Price 279,99 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
New design and new features
Jet or open-face helmets are currently very fashionable. Fox was one of the first manufacturers to bring such a model with extended side protection onto the market. Now the Americans are launching the second evolutionary stage. The Dropframe finally has an adjustable visor, which can also be fixed with a screw for attaching a GoPro. It also offers the option of placing a goggle more easily under the visor. Another new feature is the fine adjustment via the Boa dial, which is now much more easily accessible at the back of the neck than was the case with the predecessor. Fox also supplies three pads of different thicknesses. That's good, because with the standard pads, the Dropframe sits tightly on the jaw and can put a bit of pressure on the cheeks. The MIPS rotation protection and a magnetic Fidlock buckle were already on board the predecessor.
Not an optimal fit
It was also available in four sizes instead of just three, which now cover a wider range with a circumference of 51 to 63 centimetres. Any fit deficits must therefore be compensated for with the pads. In our test, the Dropframe sat much more securely than a classic half-shell helmet, but still wobbled noticeably in fast and violent passages. The thin straps of the Boa system are also noticeable. They can press or rub against the scalp in the long term, especially with short shaven hair. However, there is no need to worry about overheating: The ventilation of the Dropframe works quite well. Interesting for ebikers: The new Fox Jet helmet fulfils the NTA-8776 standard for e-bike helmets. The biggest drawback, however, is the hefty price - Fox charges a whopping 80 euros more than its predecessor.
+ Rotary dial easily accessible and finely adjustable
+ Magnetic lock
+ Adjustable visor
+ Properly ventilated
- Only three sizes
- Adjustable fit with padding
- Thin straps of the Boa system
- expensive
Velocio Merino Trail Longsleeve
- Weight 172 grams (size M)
- Sizes XS - 4XL
- Colours Grey / Green / Black / Orange
- Material 75% wool,18% nylon,7% elastane
- Price 97,95 Euro
The merino longsleeve from Velocio has already proven itself in many situations: In winter, it works great as an insulating layer - as a kind of vest replacement. In summer, the thin shirt protects you from the sun, but doesn't get too sweaty compared to many heavy merino shirts. The blend of wool and polyester feels comfortable against the skin and shouldn't scratch even sensitive skin types. Thanks to the odour-neutralising effect of the merino wool, the Velocio shirt is perfect for bikepacking and overnighters - unfortunately, it dries more slowly than pure synthetic fibre shirts. The back of the forearms is protected by a lining made of abrasion-resistant material.
Shimano GF600
- Sizes 38 - 48
- Weight 855 grams (size 46)
- Sole Ultread GF
- Torbal 2.0 torsion plate
- Price 159,95 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
In the summer, Shimano presented a whole range of new shoes. One of these was the GF600 for enduro and gravity use. A distinctive Shimano feature: the discreetly raised, padded shaft on the inside to protect the ankles. The robust upper material can withstand light rain and mud without water ingress. Top. Otherwise, the shoe is equipped with all the necessary mtb features, such as solid heel and toe protection and a grippy sole that sticks to the pedals. The ventilation is fine. The excessively long laces and soft sole were less practical. On long, steep descents, you can clearly feel the pedals in the centre area. This doesn't feel good and encourages cramps.
+Fit
+Water-repellent
+grip
- Too soft sole
- Long laces
Conclusion: Solid MTB shoe with dirt-repellent upper material. The soft sole was noticeable on long, steep descents. - Laurin Lehner, BIKE editor
